Charismatic forward’s comeback to the West London stage will be rapturously received, reports Matt Hughes

With those plastic flags memorably mocked by Rafael Benítez and an opera
singer performing Blue is the Colour before kick-off, there is often an
artificial air to Champions League nights at Stamford Bridge. But there
should be no need for such tacky attempts to build an atmosphere this
evening. Sincerity will be the order of the day when Didier Drogba is given
a rapturous reception on his first appearance back at his former club before
Chelsea’s fans sit down to enjoy the return of another much-missed friend.

Chelsea have not contested a home knockout tie in the Champions League since